Press release

Opening weekend of EuroVolley provides thrills and spills

Russia (pictured) and Italy finished on top of their respective pools

Lausanne, Switzerland, September 26, 2011 – Russia and Italy became the first two sides to book their spot in the quarterfinals of the Women’s EuroVolley 2011 on Sunday as the tournament, which acts as a qualifier for the FIVB Volleyball Women’s World Cup 2011, began in Italy and Serbia over the weekend.

The eventual champions will move onto the World Cup, set to take place in Japan from November 4 to 18, and the top three ranking sides from that will then move onto the London 2012 Olympic Games.

With Pool’s B and D, which both took place in Italy, completed, the line up for the next round is already half decided.

Russia will face the winner of a playoff match between Turkey and Spain while Italy will take on the winner of the Netherlands v Azerbaijan match.

Pool A and C are still taking place in Serbia With Germany and Poland both leading their respective groups.

The tournament will conclude this Sunday with the Italians hoping to become the second team to win three titles in a row after Russia.